Overview & Reviews

Like other vehicles in the growing subcompact segment, the Nissan Versa offers excellent fuel economy and available upmarket features while remaining very affordable. The current Versa also distinguishes itself with two available body styles -- the sedan and the Versa Note hatchback (reviewed separately) -- as well as one of the biggest backseats this segment will ever see. It's an adequate choice as an entry-level vehicle, though drivers looking for any degree of excitement or personality are advised to look toward the Versa's competition.

Current Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa sedan is offered in S, S Plus, SV and SL trim levels. The S is about as basic as it gets, providing steel wheels, air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat and a two-speaker sound system. The S Plus gets a rear spoiler, cruise control and four-speaker audio. The SV adds alloy wheels, a folding rear seat and higher-quality interior trim. The SL boasts larger alloy wheels, keyless ignition and entry, Bluetooth and a USB/iPod input. Some of the SL's features are optional on the SV. The SL is eligible for additional technology features, including a navigation system and a touchscreen interface.

Power comes from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the base S trim level, while a four-speed automatic transmission is optional. The other trims come standard with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which greatly improves the car's fuel economy.

In reviews, we've found the Nissan Versa's tall roof line allows for a huge amount of interior space. Headroom in particular is extraordinary. There's also ample legroom, even in back, where 6-footers can miraculously ride in comfort. Cargo space is similarly impressive, with the trunk outdoing those of several larger cars. Materials quality, however, is underwhelming.

As a daily driver, the Versa provides pleasant enough service. It's a sensible sort of car, with an uncommonly cushy ride for a subcompact. The 1.6-liter engine doesn't like to be rushed, but it remains reasonably civilized in normal operation. If you're looking for a little flair or excitement, something like a Chevrolet Sonic or Ford Fiesta will probably be a better choice, as they provide more involving handling and distinctive styling.

Used Nissan Versa Models
The current, second-generation Nissan Versa sedan debuted for the 2012 model year. The current Versa's dimensions are largely unchanged from those of its predecessor, but the car is considerably more fuel-efficient. If you're shopping for a used current-generation Versa sedan, keep in mind that the 2013 model received a handful of additional standard and optional features. There have been no major changes, though.

The first-generation Nissan Versa sedan was produced from 2007-'11, and there was also a Versa hatchback (now known as the Versa Note) offered from 2007-'12. Originally, every Versa sedan and hatchback came standard with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder that produced 122 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission was standard. A four-speed automatic transmission was optional on the base Versa S trim, while a CVT was optional on the more upscale SL. For 2009, the SL sedan came standard with the four-speed automatic, while the SL hatchback got the CVT standard.

Another, more significant revision occurred for '09 when Nissan added a pair of even cheaper entry-level sedan models: the 1.6 Base and 1.6. As the number suggests, it had a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produced 107 hp and 111 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual was standard and the four-speed automatic was optional. These 1.6 models had even fewer features than the 1.8 (air-conditioning and a radio were options).

It's important to note that antilock brakes were optional on all trims until 2010, when they became standard. ABS was always optional on the 1.6 variants. We highly recommend making sure a used Versa has this important safety feature.

We liked the original-generation Nissan Versa's spacious, comfortable and well-equipped cabin. We also found the 1.8-liter Versa to be surprisingly peppy and comfortable to drive. The CVT did a commendable job of getting the car up to speed on the highway; however, the six-speed manual made better use of the 1.8-liter engine's power reserves, so we recommend it to buyers who don't mind doing their own shifting.

As for the 1.6, it actually wasn't the downgrade you'd think it would be given its lower power. A sprint from zero to 60 mph still was accomplished in less than 10 seconds with the manual, and it rarely felt overwhelmed on the road. It's not the most pleasant-sounding engine in the world, however. Regardless of engine, this Versa suffered on rough roads, with the wheels tending to hop over obstructions rather than settling quietly back into place.

User Reviews:

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  Old Blue - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Old Blue - May 21 - 11:46 pm

  Bought it for a company car. Needed solid dependability and great gas mileage. Every one who drives it, loves it. Big enough to carry full size adult American males comfortably and go along with the traffic flow. Keyless entry and Bluetooth add to business ease of use. Owned it first month and put on 3,000 Florida highway miles with no additional problems other then fuel door release cable hangs down and was never properly installed.

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  A Nice First Car - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Oscar - May 19 - 4:03 am

  This was the first car I test-drove after getting my license and so far, I do not regret my decision. I wanted a no-frills, simple car, and the Versa was that plus a bit more. I was also looking for something to carry around people comfortably, and the Versa does just the trick; I even find myself wanting to sit in the back seat to indulge in all the room. The interior layout and controls are nice, everything I need while driving is within easy reach. Performance-wise, the Versa meets my needs. I have to keep reminding myself its not a sports car, but with some consideration on my part, it does what I need it to do. Street and highway driving are a breeze. Fuel economy is decent.

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  CVT is an issue - 2012 Nissan Versa
  By ttheroux - May 15 - 1:45 am

  I run a fleet of vehicles including 5 of these. We typically run our cars between 40k-50k mi. per year. Of the 5, 2 of them had the CVT transmissions fail within the 1st year. One of these now needs a second trasmission replacement at 82K. Our local dealer, Harte Nissan in Hartford, CT, is working with us the best they can with the replacement costs but Nissan is not stepping up to the plate. Nissan knows their CVTs are problematic and have extended their warranties on other years/models, but not this one. I will not be buying any more Nissans for our fleet. BTW, even when they work correctly, the CVT is a annoying transmission especially with a small, low torque motor.

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  So Far So Good - 2009 Nissan Versa
  By Pat - May 14 - 5:14 pm

  Update#2. Car is driven daily. Things have been good so far. No mechanical break downs or problems. Rotate the tires. Change the oil. Thats about it. Update: Car has been reliable so far. Has 75k miles now. Has adequate power and decent fuel economy. The versa is not a freeway car, its for around town and commuting. Yes it can be driven 75 mph but its uncomfortable. Even the loaded SL feels cheap but thats what it is....a cheap car. Once you get over that and appreciate its real quality (inexpensive transportation) you will feel good about driving it. Would I buy this car over a Toyota Camry or Honda Civic (?) probably not but you can buy one cheap. If this car lasts us 5 more years and/or 75k more miles Ill not regret it. Car is now 7 years old w/65k miles. Purchased one year ago from an elderly family member who bought it new. Versa reliability a mixed bag from what Ive read. Im more into Toyota quality but this car came available at a great price. So far no major issues. Had to change out one strut. Still on the original set of brakes. Seems to be easy on tires. Averages about 30 MPG. Drives out pretty good. No speed demon but adequate. My impression is this is a decent economy car that does everything well. Time will tell if it lasts. Pros: Great visibility, decent MPG, fold down rear seats. Cons: Electronic steering, jittery on the highway, engine noisy when pushed.

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  Love it! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By jmagill - May 12 - 12:43 pm

  I researched all the small hatchbacks/wagons. Vibe, Scion, Fit. The Versa gets good gas mileage. I drive mostly highway at around 70 and am averaging 32 MPG. I live in the mountains and have no problem with power or curves. This car is roomy and comfortable/ My 65" husband has no problems with fit. I am more than pleased and would make the purchase again. Loved the price!

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  Very good small car! - 2007 Nissan Versa
  By Dale -- New Mexico - May 11 - 1:40 pm

  Comfortable small car thats roomy (back seats have easy entry and more leg room than most larger cars). This car is safe - 4 star rating bumper to bumper. The last tankfull MPG. was 36.2 in city and some highway use (very pleased!). Use slower takeoffs at lights and easy braking. You cant punch it to get great MPG! Dont worry, this car has plenty of power in city and on the highways! And the control and feel is secure even at high speeds. One thing we dont like is on bad roads you feel the bumps! But this is a small car after all. Make sure you test drive it on some bumpy roads! I got the best mpg and ride with the tires at 33 PSI.

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  1.8 SL CVT - 2010 Nissan Versa
  By shine1314 - May 7 - 8:53 am

  I used to own a Nissan 200 SX SE and I just bought a Nissan Versa SL yesterday after comparing and shopping around. Ive considered Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Honda Civic, and Mazada3. Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris felt cheap and uncomfortable compared to the Nissan Versa. Mazada3 and Civic EX-L seemed unnecessarily expensive. I also read reviews that said the Civic EX is loud on the road. The Versa is very smooth, roomy, comfortable, quiet on the road and beautiful. Not the prettiest appearance on the outside but definitely practical. So far I love everything about it and I cant stop smiling. Really love the CVT transmission, b/c its so quiet that my boyfriend kept on falling asleep in it.

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  Loved its! - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Rod - May 6 - 11:07 am

  Basic car - had a stick shift and sun roof - made it fun.

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  Skip the Fit, Buy the Versa - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By Soccrian - April 22 - 2:16 pm

  I had driven a 2002 BMW 5-series for about 2 years prior to purchasing the Nissan Versa. Taking a new job 25 miles away- I couldnt afford premium gas at 20 mpg anymore. I reluctantly started looking at "bubble cars." The Versa had reviewed well, so I gave it a shot. I have had this vehicle for about 6 months now, and I am so happy with every aspect of it. I am constantly amazed with how comfortable, well built, and roomy it is. Youd be surprised what you can fit into that little bugger! I drive about 50 miles a day in commute, and I love everything about the car. Good gas mileage and seemingly engineered for me! Golf clubs fit well in the back- cargo area is big enough to fit everything.

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  Best for the money - 2008 Nissan Versa
  By alli - April 14 - 9:53 am

  The Yaris was like driving a bubble, the Fit was nice but cost too much, my Versa is bigger has more power and better MPG. The only thing I would change would have been my color selection (2) which did not not make my head turn.